Free carpentry proposal template
A proposal needs six parts. This template has all six, filled in with a sample carpentry job so you can see how it reads. Download it, or write your own from a few typed notes.
What is in it
Typed by the carpenter: "build 12x16 deck pressure treated, 2x8 joists 16 oc, composite decking customer picks color, 36in rail, 4 steps"
- Build 12x16 deck, pressure treated.
- 2x8 joists, 16 in. on center.
- Composite decking, customer picks color.
- 36 in. rail.
- 4 steps.
Warranty: 1 year on all labor and workmanship
Deposit at signing: $3,700
Signature block: typed name, date, and the E-SIGN Act line.
Or fill it in from your notes
Type the job the way you would text it. It comes out in this format in about five seconds. No account needed.
30 days free, then $29 a month. No card to start.
Finished carpentry estimates to copy from
- Deck build estimate example, $8,900, 4 days
- Pergola estimate example, $4,600, 3 days
- Trim and doors estimate example, $4,400, 3 days
- Built-in shelving estimate example, $5,800, 5 days
How to use it
Replace the company block with yours, keep the structure, and write the scope as a short list of what you will do, one item per line. Put one total price on it. Add a timeline and payment terms every time. Date it and give it an expiry, usually 30 days.
The parts most carpenters leave out
- Payment terms. "50% upfront, 50% on completion" on the proposal means it is never a conversation at the end of the job.
- A valid-through date. Prices move. Without one, an old bid can be accepted months later.
- A way to accept on the spot. A printed PDF has to be signed, scanned, and emailed back, and plenty of customers put that off. A link they can tap and type their name on takes a minute.
What to fill in on a carpentry proposal
- Lumber species and grade
- Fastener and hardware type
- Who does the finish: stain, paint, or none
- Footing depth on anything structural
A deck over a certain height, or one attached to the house, often needs a permit. A deposit for special-order material is normal.
Questions about carpentry estimates
What should a contractor estimate include?
Six parts: who it is from and who it is for, the scope of work as a short list, one total price, a timeline, payment terms with any deposit, and a way for the customer to accept. A warranty line and a valid-through date keep it from being argued over later.
Is an estimate legally binding?
Once the customer accepts it in writing, yes, for the scope and price on it. A typed name and e-signature on a phone counts under the E-SIGN Act. A number texted back and forth is much harder to hold anyone to.
Can I use this template as is?
Yes. Download the PDF, replace the company block with yours, and keep the structure. Or type your own job below and it is laid out for you in a few seconds.
Can I describe custom work in detail?
Yes. The job notes can be as long as you need. They get cleaned up and laid out at full length.
Can the customer sign on a phone?
Yes. No app, no account. They tap the link, read it, and type their name.
Or skip the template
BidWriter Pro turns notes like "build 12x16 deck pressure treated, 2x8 joists 16 oc, composite decking customer picks color, 36in rail, 4 steps" into this proposal, sends it by text or email, collects the deposit by card when the customer accepts, and follows up if they go quiet. Free for 30 days, no card. See how it works for carpenters or open the sample your customer would see.
Other templates: General contractor estimate · Plumbing · Electrical · Roofing · HVAC · Painting · Landscaping · Flooring · Concrete / Masonry · Fencing · Handyman / Remodel · General Contractor · Drywall · Tile · Gutters · Pressure Washing · Tree Service · Garage Doors · Septic · Pest Control · Solar · Windows and Doors · Siding · Decks